RegionFeatured DestinationUNESCO World Heritage
Damaraland
Namibia 40,000 km² (15,444 mi²)
About Damaraland
Damaraland is a vast, starkly beautiful region of ancient geological formations, petrified forests, and dramatic desert landscapes in northwestern Namibia. The area is renowned for its desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos that roam freely through the dry riverbeds and rocky plains.
Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Twyfelfontein rock engravings — over 2,500 Bushman petroglyphs dating back 6,000 years — the Organ Pipes basalt columns, the Petrified Forest, and the dramatic Brandberg mountain with its famous White Lady rock painting. Community conservancies have made Damaraland a model for community-based conservation in Africa.
0
Safari Tours
4.0
Avg Rating
3/5
Big Five
Highlights
- Desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos roam freely
- UNESCO World Heritage Twyfelfontein rock engravings
- Dramatic ancient geological formations and petrified forests
- Successful community conservancy model
- Excellent remote luxury lodges
Considerations
- Wildlife sightings require patience and long drives
- Extremely hot in summer months
- Rough gravel roads require careful driving
- Very remote with limited services and fuel stops
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
rare
🐆
Leopard
Not present
🐘
Elephant
common
🦬
Buffalo
Not present
🦏
Rhino
occasional
Notable Species
Lion
Rare
Elephant
Common
Black Rhino
Occasional
Giraffe
Occasional
Zebra
Occasional
Springbok
Common
Gemsbok
Common
Jackal
Common
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Damaraland is roughly 4-6 hours drive northwest of Windhoek via Omaruru or the B2/C39. Many lodges have their own airstrips for fly-in guests. The region is typically included as part of a self-drive or guided circuit.
Nearest Airport
Twyfelfontein Airstrip
Nearest City
Khorixas
Drive Time
5 hours